Hurricane the storm Intensifies While Barrels Towards Jamaica

Cyclone the storm is predicted to become a infrequent Category 5 storm as it veers towards the Caribbean island, bringing dangerous rapid inundation and rock falls.

The hurricane, which had winds of up to 120 mph as of 06:00 GMT, is currently turning north-west in the Caribbean region and is anticipated to reach land by early next week, based on data from hurricane specialists.

Advisories of power cuts and damage to infrastructure have been announced as the hurricane generates up to 76cm of rain and sea level surges as high as 4m above ground. "Take cover without delay," inhabitants have been told.

This hurricane is the thirteenth cyclone in the ongoing Atlantic season, which usually concludes in November.

Category Five Cyclone Danger

A Category 5 cyclone is the most powerful category, with wind speeds of at least 157mph.

Even though Melissa is set to reduce in intensity to a fourth-level storm before arriving at Jamaica, authorities said there was "very little practical difference in the overall impacts" upon making contact with land, and that the storm will be "equally strong" when it impacts the island.

Urgent Safety Steps

With tropical storm-strength gusts and precipitation already expected ahead of it moves across central Jamaica - including potentially the city of Kingston - alerts state that "safety measures need to be finalized quickly".

"A multi-day period of harmful winds and torrential rain are underway and will cause severe and deadly sudden floods and multiple landslides," counseled weather authorities.

The nation's leader the official said: "I understand that there are numerous residents who are concerned, who are very concerned, and rightfully so: concern is justified.

"However the best way to handle worry and any apprehension and concern is to stay ready."

Residents are being told to protect their properties with protective bags and wooden boards, and to gather necessary supplies.

Broader Effects

Warnings are also ongoing for regions of Haiti including the main city, Port au Prince, the neighboring country and Cuba's eastern region, where Melissa is anticipated to bring analogous consequences by the midweek period.

Rock slides presently generated by the storm have already killed two in the country, according to emergency services.

Future Trajectory

The hurricane is projected to cross Cuba by midweek before traveling via the Antillas Mayores and out into the Atlantic.

By the moment it reaches Cuba, it is anticipated to have reduced to a third-level storm.

Weather Context

Even though it is difficult to associate individual weather events to global warming, scientists say it is resulting in climate patterns more common and more intense.

Increased sea temperatures produce additional humidity in the atmosphere, aiding in the development of tropical cyclones.

Before the commencement of this year's Atlantic storm period, weather organizations predicted above-normal activity, citing warmer seas and possible stronger monsoon activity around African coastal regions - where Atlantic storms often form.